Tenders invited for study on second airport
BENGALURU: Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation has invited tenders from consultancy firms to prepare a comprehensive location suitability and technical-cum-financial feasibility report on the proposed second international airport in Bengaluru. The last date for application submission is January 12, 2026. Infrastructure Development Minister MB Patil said on Saturday that the State government has identified land for the project at Choodahalli and Somanahalli on Kanakapura Road and near Nelamangala. A high-level team from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has inspected these places and submitted a preliminary assessment report. The selected consultancy firm will submit its feasibility report within five months. Firms that have executed projects worth Rs 250 crore annually over the past five years and have prepared reports for at least five projects in the relevant sector are eligible to place their bid, he said. The minister said key parameters such as rainfall pattern, topography, power availability, water supply, sewerage, population, regional development prospects and noise pollution from airport operations will be studied. The report will have details such as project cost, land required, and statutory approvals, including clearances from the Ministry of Defence and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation. The firm will also assess the impact of the proposed airport on industries, tourism and public mobility, and the existing and proposed connectivity to the shortlisted sites. Cargo-handling facilities, passenger services and their economic viability will also be studied, he said. Patil said KIA ranks second in the country in terms of passenger density. With air traffic expected to grow steadily, Karnataka needs a second airport by 2033.
Clown world on steroids!: Sen John Kennedy blasts Minnesota over $1 BILLION Somali fraud scheme
Second airport for Bengaluru: Tenders invited for feasibility study, says Minister M.B. Patil
The State government has identified sites at Choodahalli and Somanahalli on Kanakapura Road, besides another location near Nelamangala, for the proposed airport, said the Minister
College friend groups, young people on dates, and creatives looking to learn something new huddled around small electric pottery wheels, in neat aprons and dainty paintbrushes, are a common sight in Bengalurus cafes and arts spaces. But this ancient crafts roots are not in city cafes but in the homes and workshops of artisans for whom pottery is a way of life, with designs and techniques passed on through generations. It is this heritage that Local Narratives one-day excursion to Doora village, just 25 minutes from Mysuru and around three hours drive from ooru, seeks to introduce to Bengalureans this Sunday. The form of pottery practiced in this pottery village, where once, founder Vaishnavi Somani says, every family practiced pottery, is different from the image urban residents are familiar with. She explains, It is a type of wheel pottery where you have to swirl the wheel manually using bamboo sticks, without any electricity. Attendees will get to learn everything from scratch and branch off into making their own creations from objects the artisans introduce them to. People will get a tour of the space, an understanding of the material - clay is not easy to mold how to spin the wheel at the right speed and get started. You can learn how to make all kinds of pots from diyas and vases to bigger pots, explains Nicole Fernandes Christ, a team member. The process of learning is part of a bigger move to bridge the urban rural-rural divide through tourism that gives back to communities, in this village, its an attempt to financially support an art form that has been slowly disappearing, while also spreading awareness about it. There are just 15 families who still practice pottery here today. We found out from them that this is because theyre having trouble reaching a market that wants to buy from them, says Somani. Christ adds, People usually travel, take pictures, and then forget about the place but this is an attempt to change travel from just consumption to contribution. People will be learning and giving back to the locals monetarily but the impact of stories being shared that come from villages to cities help them live longer.
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Campus to capital: ACS Energy secures Rs 1.1 Cr pre-seed funding
SVU-born, riidl-incubated EV charging startup ACS Energy readies to scale its clean-mobility mission with new investment from Inflection Point Ventures. ACS Energy, a campus-born EV charging startup founded by alumni of K J Somaiya School of Engineering, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, has secure
Indian sugar industry leader wins Global Excellence Award
Samir Somaiya has become the first Indian to receive the Plinio Nastari Sugar Excellence Award from the International Sugar Organisation
Everything announced and all the winners at The Game Awards 2025
This year at The Game Awards, if your game wasnt melodramatic, mechanically innovative, beautifully presented and aggressively French, it didnt stand a chance. The Game Awards 2025 wrapped up on the evening of Thursday, December 11 with a record-breaking showing by Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 from Sandfall Interactive. The game received the most nominations and wins in the shows 12-year history. But, we know thats not really why youre here. Between the award presentations and musical numbers, there were heaps of new game trailers, announcements and updates, and weve collected them all for you right here. The award winners are also there. News Capcom's Pragmata is coming your way on April 24 Bradley the Badger looks like Wreck-It Ralph as a real video game Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic is a new action RPG from the director of Mass Effect and KOTOR Larian Studios is returning to the Divinity series with... Divinity Coven of the Chicken Foot is the debut game from Naughty Dog alum Bruce Straley's indie studio The devs of SOMA are back with a spiritual successor called Ontos 4:LOOP is a co-op shooter from the creator of Left 4 Dead and JJ Abrams' Bad Robot Order of the Sinking Star: Ten years after The Witness, Jonathan Blow's next massive puzzle game is almost ready for primetime South of Midnight is coming to PS5 and Switch 2 next spring Exodus is delayed to early 2027 Control Resonant steps into a larger world that's inspired by Neon Genesis Evangelion Lego Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight swoops onto PC and consoles on May 29 Lara Croft will return in Tomb Raider: Catalyst and a new remake Housemarque's Saros is delayed to April 30 Star Wars: Galactic Racer is a podracing game set for 2026 Award winners Best family game: Donkey Kong Bananza Innovation in accessibility: Doom: The Dark Ages Best esports game: Counter-Strike 2 Best esports athlete: Chovy Best esports team: Team Vitality Best mobile game: Umamasume: Pretty Derby Best indie game: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Best adaptation: The Last of Us season 2 Best action game: Hades II Best performance: Jennifer English, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Games for impact: South of Midnight Best ongoing game: No Mans Sky Best audio design: Battlefield 6 Content creator of the year: MoistCr1TiKaL Best fighting game: Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves Most anticipated game: Grand Theft Auto VI Best action/adventure game: Hollow Knight: Silksong Best art direction: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Best sim/strategy game: Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Best debut indie game: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Best score and music: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Best sports/racing game: Mario Kart World Best community support: Baldurs Gate 3 Best VR/AR game: The Midnight Walk Best RPG: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Players voice: Wuthering Waves Best narrative: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Best multiplayer game: Arc Raiders Best game direction: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Game of the year: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Trailers Pragmata by Capcom Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic by Arcanaut Studios and Lucasfilm Games Divinity by Larian Studios Coven of the Chicken Foot by Wildflower Interactive ONTOS by Frictional Games 4:LOOP by Bad Robot Games Resident Evil Requiem by Capcom Order of the Sinking Star by Thekla Exodus by Archetype Entertainment WARLOCK by Invoke Studios and Wizards of the Coast Control Resonant by Remedy Enterainment Gang of Dragon by Nagoshi Studio Street Fighter movie sneak peak LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight by Warner Bros. Games Tomb Raider: Catalyst by Crystal Dynamics Tomb Raider: Legacy of Atlantis by Crystal Dynamics and Flying Wild Hog Invincible VS by Skybound Games Diablo 4: Lord of Hatred by Blizzard Entertainment Deadpool is coming to Marvel Rivals 007 First Light Lenny Kravitz Announcement Saros by Housemarque Warframe featuring Werner Herzog for some reason Total War: Warhammer 40,000 by Creative Assembly Hitman World of Assassination by IO Interactive Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve by Bandai Namco Star Wars Galactic Racer by Fuse and Lucasfilm Games Out of Words by Kong Orange and WiredFly Phantom Blade Zero by S-GAME Mega Man Dual Override by Capcom Super Mario Galaxy movie trailer Highguard by Wildlight Entertainment Dont forget to check out our Day of the Devs: The Game Awards 2025 roundup , which included six world premieres, three release date announcements and a whole bunch of awesome indie goodness. The Women-Led Games and Latin American Games showcases tied to the awards were also downright delightful. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/everything-announced-and-all-the-winners-at-the-game-awards-2025-044101761.html?src=rss
The devs of SOMA are back with a spiritual successor called Ontos
Frictional Games is back with a new game that looks primed to carry on the studio's tradition of excellence in horror. It's called Ontos , and it's slated to launch on PC, PlayStation and Xbox next year. The trailer debuted during The Game Awards 2025. The company's past projects include Amnesia: The Dark Descent and SOMA , and this new title is also looking pretty dang creepy. It looks like things will take a philosophical turn, with a story of trying to piece together your father's past that leads you to questioning the meaning of life and reality. The team is going big with the casting, with Stellan Skarsgrd playing one of the main roles in the trailer. This is one that any horror fans will want to keep on their radar. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/the-devs-of-soma-are-back-with-a-spiritual-successor-called-ontos-021535060.html?src=rss
NEW DELHI: The regime of Mahmud of Ghazni has been highlighted extensively in the Class VII Social Science Studies textbook (Part-2) released recently by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The book also moves away from a North-centric narrative and showcasing the greatness of past dynasties in the Southern and Eastern parts of the country, said sources. The textbook, titled Exploring Societies: India and Beyond , dwells on the period between the 6th and 12th centuries. It is in line with the National Education Policy 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework for School Education 2023. TNIE was given access to the book. Unlike the previous edition, where the Turkish ruler Mahmud of Ghazni was allotted just one paragraph, a whole chapter has been devoted to him in the revised edition. Chapter 4, titled Turning Tides: 11th and 12th centuries , deals extensively with the ruler and speaks of the destruction, plunder, and slaughter of tens of thousands of Indian civilians. Numerous prisoners were captured, including children, who were later sold in the slave markets of Central Asia, it said. His biographers depicted him as a powerful but cruel and ruthless general, keen not only to slaughter or enslave infidels (Hindus, Buddhists, or Jains) but also to kill believers from rival sects of Islam. Mahmud later went to Gujarat and Somnath (present-day Saurashtra), which was a bustling seaport. Despite strong resistance from the locals, after a few days of fighting Mahmud gained the upper hand, destroyed the Somnath Shiva temple, and looted its enormous treasures, it said. A noteworthy addition is the inclusion of dynasties whose contributions hardly found a place in textbooks in the past. The Kakatiyas of Telangana patronised Telugu literature and built the 1000-pillar temple at Hanamkonda, it said. They had a strong local administration along with an efficient revenue system. The Chalukyas of Kalyani, missing from school curricula earlier, are also included. A discussion on the Pallavas followed by the Bhakti tradition of South India finds a place here. Cholas, Hoysalas, philosophers like Ramanujacharya, and social reformers like Basaveshvara are highlighted. The great past of Eastern and North-East India has been highlighted through detailed coverage of the Palas in Bengal and Bihar, who founded major universities like Vikramashila and Somapura. The Senas and Eastern Gangas, builders of the Jagannath Puri temple and Sun Temple in Konark, are covered along with the Varmans dynasty. The great philosopher Shankaracharya, who consolidated the Advaita Vedanta school of thought, is also highlighted. His visit to Kashmir in the 8th century is mentioned, where he engaged in philosophical debates and contributed to the regions spiritual landscape.
NEW DELHI: The Indian Medical Parliamentarians Forum (IMPF), a cross-party collective of 45 medical professionals turned parliamentarians, have issued a public health alert, warning that dozens of children with ultra-rare Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs), a rare inherited metabolic conditions caused by a deficiency of specific enzymes, are at immediate risk due to preventable treatment interruptions under the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD 2021). In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Forums Chairperson, Dr Anil Bonde, has called for urgent, time-bound intervention to halt avoidable deaths and ensure uninterrupted access to Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT), the only life-saving treatment for many LSD conditions. The BJP Rajya Sabha MP from Maharashtra said nearly 100 patients currently on ERT are at imminent risk of discontinuation as funds have stalled. Over 60 children and young adults have already died due to delays in therapy initiation or breaks in treatment, said the letter, which was also addressed to Union Health Minister JP Nadda. The letter highlighted that of the 60 patients, 20 have died in the last 12 months The Forum, which has MPs from both the Houses as its members, warned that even a brief disruption in ERT can cause acute metabolic crises, irreversible organ damage, and often death - turning every delay into a life-threatening event. Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs) like Gaucher, Pompe, Fabry, and MPS are rare genetic conditions from missing enzymes, causing toxic buildup in cells, leading to severe, progressive multi-system damage (organs, nerves, bones) from infancy to adulthood. The center has notified the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD) in March 2021 to provide affordable care for rare disease patients, categorizing diseases into three groups and establishing Centres of Excellence (CoEs) for treatment, diagnosis, and research, offering financial aid up to 50 Lakhs for curative treatments. However, the Forum said, four years after notification, serious implementation gaps are now costing young lives. Children who were earlier stabilised and progressing well on Enzyme Replacement Therapy (ERT) are relapsing, becoming bedridden, or dying only because treatment has stopped after exhausting the current one-time cap of 50 lakh available under Group 3(a) of NPRD 2021. Families describe the anguish of watching a child regress despite an approved therapy, an existing policy and budgetary allocations, Dr Bonde said. He said clinical experience and published evidence show that even short interruptions in ERT can lead to irreversible organ damage and, in many cases, death within months. In this context, the one-time ceiling of Rs. 50 lakh, without a mechanism for continuation funding, is proving inadequate for lifelong conditions where uninterrupted therapy is medically essential. The result is a tragic paradox: patients are dying despite a notified policy, established CoEs and available therapies, he added. The Forum suggested waiver or extension of the Rs. 50 lakh cap for existing Group 3(a) LSD patients; immediate approval of therapy for all eligible patients who have already exhausted the ceiling, so that no child or adult currently on treatment is forced into regression or death for want of funds. They also suggested to the prime minister to create a continuum-of-care funding framework under NPRD 2021: and to direct the Union Health Ministry, in consultation with the Ministry of Finance and NITI Aayog, to design a sustainable mechanism for uninterrupted, long-term therapy support for high-risk Group 3(a) patients. This could include a distinct pathway within NPRD 2021 for DCGI-approved therapies with strong evidence of clinical efficacy, ensuring that once a patient is initiated on ERT, treatment is not abruptly withdrawn due to administrative caps, the letter said. The Forum also suggested streamlining utilisation and governance of existing rare-disease funds; addressing administrative bottlenecks that delay treatment and result in under-utilisation or expiry of sanctioned funds. A strengthened oversight framework, with clear timelines and accountability for CoEs and implementing agencies, will help ensure that every rupee reaches the intended patient, the letter said. Highlighting that no child or adult with an ultra-rare Lysosomal Storage Disorder is denied life-saving treatment solely for want of continuity of care, Dr Bonde said, A timely decision in this matter will save many young lives and reaffirm India's commitment to leaving no vulnerable patient behind on our journey towards a Viksit Bharat.
In a submission to Prime Minister, the forum has warned that treatment interruptions under the National Policy for Rare Diseases have placed dozens of young patients at immediate and preventable risk
MoS Somanna & Karandlaje hail HC stand on Jan Aushadhi Kendras, slam Siddaramaiah
The Karnataka High Court has overturned a government decision to shut down Jan Aushadhi Kendras in government hospitals. Union Ministers Somanna and Karandlaje hailed the verdict, saying it protects the right to health for the poor.
Children With Rare Disorders At Risk Due To Interruptions In Treatment: Medical Group
The Indian Medical Parliamentarians Forum has urged urgent government action to prevent life-threatening treatment interruptions for children with Lysosomal Storage Disorders, calling for removal of the Rs 50 lakh cap.
Somalia? Why only these s*hole countries?: Trump unloads on third world migrants at PA rally
'Why only s**thole countries like Somalia?': Trumps fiery rant against 'third world' immigrants
Trehan Iris , a pioneering name in Indian real estate for over seven decades, has announced a major strategic initiative to embed holistic wellness at the core of all its upcoming developments. Aligning with its guiding philosophy Nourish Your Being the company is integrating biophilic design elements, nature-led environments, and mindful community amenities to create living and working ecosystems that elevate everyday well-being. Trehan Iris onboards Milind Soman as its Wellness Advisor In a significant step toward strengthening this vision, Trehan Iris has appointed an actor, model, film producer, fitness and a wellness icon Milind Soman as its Wellness Advisor. Widely regarded for promoting holistic health, endurance, and sustainable lifestyle practices, Milind will consult on the wellness framework for Trehan Iris upcoming projects in Gurugram and Noida. His guidance will help shape-built environments that inspire residents and professionals to adopt healthier, more mindful ways of living. Speaking about the collaboration, Abhishek Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan Iris , said, At Trehan Iris, we believe that wellness is the ultimate luxury. Our partnership with Milind Soman marks a significant step in translating this belief into built environments where every design element, amenity, and experience fosters holistic well-being. His philosophy of balanced, mindful living aligns seamlessly with our vision for the future of real estate. While Aman Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan Iris adds, Real estate must evolve to meet the changing needs of people, and wellness is central to that evolution. With Milind Soman onboard, were bringing sharper insight into designing spaces that encourage healthier lifestyles, from the architecture to the everyday experiences. This partnership reinforces our mission to build the next generation of wellness-led developments. Expressing his enthusiasm, Milind Soman commented, Wellness is not about doing something extra, its about integrating healthy habits and mindful choices into everyday life. Im glad to associate with Trehan Iris as their Wellness Advisor to shape communities that make well-being an intrinsic part of how people live, move, and connect. With this collaboration, Trehan Iris reinforces its commitment to redefining luxury real estate by placing holistic wellness at the heart of its design philosophy and community planning. The company continues to craft future-ready spaces that promote harmony, balance, vitality, and a deeper connection with nature. About Trehan Iris Building on a legacy of over 7 decades, Trehan Iris is now reimagining urban development through the lens of wellness. With more than 15 million sq. ft. delivered across 100+ landmark projectsincluding IRIS Broadway Gurgaon, IRIS Broadway Greno West, an ongoing 1 million retail led, mixed use development, IRIS Tech Park, and IRIS Cyber Towerthe company has consistently demonstrated innovation, quality, and trust. Moreover, Trehan Iris is also expanding its presence in the south with a 5-star hotel and IT Park in Bangalore along with other upcoming residential projects in Gurgaon and a commercial & retail development in Noida. Additionally, these upcoming projects will focus on wellness, further enhancing lifestyle and ecosystem. With this new chapter, Trehan Iris is committed to make wellness an integral part of all future developments.
Filthy, Dirty, Disgusting: Trump's Racist Tirade Against African Migrants
Unleashing a xenophobic tirade, US President Donald Trump disparaged Somalia as filthy, dirty, disgusting, ridden with crime, calling immigrants from the African nation garbage he does not want in America.
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Pakistan and India, they were going at it, I ended the war: US President Trump
US President Donald Trump has once again asserted that he intervened to halt the brief conflict between India and Pakistan earlier this year, reiterating a claim that he has now repeated nearly 70 times. Speaking at a campaign rally focused on the economy in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, Trump listed several international disputes he claimed to have ended. In 10 months, I ended eight wars, including Kosovo and Serbia, Pakistan and India, they were going at it. Israel and Iran, Egypt and Ethiopia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, he told supporters. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians. The two countries agreed on May 10 to end hostilities after intense drone and missile strikes. New Delhi has repeatedly denied any third-party role in the de-escalation. Trump also claimed that Cambodia and Thailand had started fighting again and said he would make a phone call to stop the alleged hostilities. Who else could say Im going to make a phone call and stop a war of two very powerful countries? he said. On immigration, Trump said that for the first time in 50 years,we now have reverse migration, which means more jobs, better wages and higher income for American citizens, not for illegal aliens. He said that he has announced a permanent pause on Third World migration, including from hellholes like Afghanistan, Haiti, Somalia and many other countries. Why can't we have some people from Norway, Sweden, just a few. Let's have a few from Denmark. Do you mind sending us a few people? Send us some nice people. Do you mind? But we always take people from Somalia, places that are a disaster, right? Filthy, dirty, disgusting, ridden with crime. The only thing they're good at is going after ships. Last month, Trump had said he would permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries and deport foreign nationals who are a security risk as his administration intensified its crackdown on immigration in the wake of the killing of a National Guard member by Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal. US Citizenship and Immigration Services issued new guidance allowing for egative, country-specific factors to be considered when vetting aliens from 19 high-risk countries. These countries are Afghanistan, Burma, Burundi, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela and Yemen. These are the same countries that were subject to a travel ban announced by Trump in a proclamation issued in June this year. The proclamation 'Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats' restricted and limited the entry of nationals of these countries into the US and applied to both immigrants and nonimmigrants.
DK Shivakumar Blames Centre, Maharashtra & Andhra For Delaying Upper Krishna Project Phase 3
The deputy CM said he, along with minister V Somanna, had met the Union Jal Shakti minister thrice but he cited unavoidable reasons for postponing scheduled meeting with the states
'American people picking on crooks': Sen. Kennedy explodes over $1 billion Somali fraud in Minnesota
SVU-supported and riidl-backed startup ACS Energy secures INR 1.1 Crore in funding
ACS Energy, an electric vehicle charging startup born at Somaiya Vidyavihar University, has secured Rs 1.1 Crore in pre-seed funding. This investment will fuel network expansion in Mumbai and other urban areas. The company aims to strengthen its hardware-software capabilities and accelerate deployments in residential communities. ACS Energy's chargers have already contributed to significant CO emission reductions.
AI hype is high, clarity is low Im staying cautious: WhiteOak Capital CEO Aashish Somaiyaa
WhiteOak Capital Asset Management differentiates itself with strategies designed to keep investors invested for longer. This includes portfolio construction that avoids extreme swings, a fund lineup less prone to high volatility, and a sticky SIP-led franchise, CEO Aashish Somaiyaa tells Sanket Dhanorkar in an interview.
Minnesota Somali Scandal: ICE busts con man linked to Ilhan Omar, Tim Walz & billion-dollar fraud
10 Maoists surrender before CM Mohan Yadav in MP's Balaghat district
BHOPAL: In a landmark development in Madhya Pradeshs anti-Naxal operations, ten hardcore Maoist cadres, including four women, surrendered before Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on Sunday in Balaghat district. The group, associated with the CPI (Maoist) Maharashtra-Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh (MMC) special zone, carried a combined bounty of Rs 2.36 crore and laid down two AK-47s and two INSAS rifles at a special programme attended by the CM. Addressing journalists in Balaghat, Dr Yadav said, Today is a big day for the success of anti-Naxal operations of MP Police. Though Dindori and Mandla district had already become free of LWE, todays big development will result in Balaghat district also getting majorly free of the outlaws. This speaks volumes about the success of the targeted anti-naxal operations based on the prime principle of surrender or get eliminated and will go a long way in freeing Kanha National Park-Tiger Reserve and Bandhavgarh National Park-Tiger Reserve of any remnants of the naxal cadres. The ten surrendered cadres belonged to the Kanha-Bhoradev (KB) division of the MMC Zone, which operated in northern parts of the zone covering Balaghat and Mandla in Madhya Pradesh and Kabirdham in Chhattisgarh. Among them were MMC Zone secretary and special zonal committee member Surendra alias Kabir Sodi (50), SCZM Rakesh Odi alias Manish, and area committee members Lalsingh Marawi, Salita alias Savitri, Navin Nuppo alias Hidma, Jaisheela alias Lalita Oyam, Vikram alias Hidma Vatti, Zarina alias Jogi Musak, and Samar alias Somaru. The cadres, aged between 26 and 50, hailed from Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra, with the two SZCMs having been linked to multiple past killings of villagers suspected of being police informers. Key sources in the state polices anti-Naxal establishment said that with this surrender, the northern part of the MMC Zone running through Kanha National Park is now free of Naxal activity. This development is expected to allow anti-Naxal camps of the MP Police and central paramilitary forces to shift focus to the southern MMC Zone, which includes the Gondia-Rajnandgaon-Balaghat (GRP) division, where 18 armed Naxals, including a 14-member group led by central committee member Ramder, are still active. The surrender comes just a day after an encounter between MP Police and Ramders group along the MP-Chhattisgarh border and 36 days after another hardcore Naxalite, Sunita, became the first cadre to surrender under the states special surrender-cum-rehabilitation policy of 2023. In 2025, MP Police also eliminated 10 hardcore Naxalites, who carried a total bounty of Rs 1.86 crore. The mass surrender in Balaghat marks the largest-ever surrender by armed Naxals in Madhya Pradesh, significantly strengthening the states efforts to curb left-wing extremism and secure sensitive areas, including Kanha and Bandhavgarh tiger reserves.
Gov. Walz denounces Trump for calling Minnesotas Somali community garbage
NEW YORK (US), Dec 5: Democratic Gov. Tim Walz denounced President Donald Trump on Thursday for calling Minnesotas Somali community garbage and dismissing the state as a hellhole. Walz said on Thursday that Trump slandered all Minnesotans and that his expressions of contempt for the states Somali community the largest in the U.S. were unprecedented for a United States president. Weve got little children going to school today who their president called them garbage. Republican legislative leaders stopped [] The post Gov. Walz denounces Trump for calling Minnesotas Somali community garbage appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Mitakshara Kumar to helm new film set in the world of Tanu Weds Manu
The film is produced by Eros Universe and Rudrak Soma Jyoti and will go on floors early next year in London
81 Per Cent Jammu Kashmir Households Now Have Tap Water: MoS Tells Lok Sabha
SRINAGAR: The Union Government informed the Lok Sabha that Jammu Kashmir has achieved 81.22 percent coverage of rural households with tap water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). The figures were shared in a written reply by Minister of State for Jal Shakti, V. Somanna. As per data, JK has a total of 19.26 []
GHADC-o tangka jakkalsretani bidingo ED, amsandianga
TURA: Garo Hills Autonomous District Council (GHADC)-o tangka jakkalsretani bidingo Enforcement Directorate (ED) Shillong Sub-Zone, mijal Bristibaro Tura songjinmani dambonga biaprangoniko amsandina abachengata. Official-rangoni uiatani gitade tangka jakalsretanina matnangako mangipa manderangara, Boston Ch Marak, Ismail Marak, Kubon Sangma aro Nikseng Sangma onga. ED ni amsandina abachengataniara, reanggimin 2015-16 bilsini somaio Tribal ajarangko namroro-silroroatna Special Assistance []
J&K has 42 NABL-accredited water labs
New Delhi, Dec 4:The Union Government on Thursday informed Lok Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir has a total of 98 drinking water quality testing laboratories of which 42 are NABL-accredited or recognised. Minister of State for Jal Shakti V Somanna said J&K currently operates with 2 state-level labs, 20 district or regional labs and 76 [] The post J&K has 42 NABL-accredited water labs appeared first on Northlines .
Clown world on steroids!: Sen Kennedy blasts Minnesota over $1B Somali fraud scheme
Jammu Kashmir Has 98 Drinking Water Testing Labs, 42 NABL-Accredited: GoI
SRINAGAR: The Union Government Thursday informed Lok Sabha that Jammu and Kashmir has a total of 98 drinking water quality testing laboratories of which 42 are NABL-accredited or recognised. Minister of State for Jal Shakti V Somanna said JK currently operates with 2 state-level labs, 20 district or regional labs and 76 block, sub-division or []
Telangana: Sarpanch candidates husband ends life over threats
Hyderabad: A sarpanch candidates husband died by suicide in Telanganas Nirmal district on Wednesday, December 3 after allegedly being threatened by Congress. The victim identified as 54-year-old Ravinder was a resident of Somaripet Village, Khanapur Mandal, Nirmal. Ravider was found hanging in a cotton field. According to reports, he had recently joined the Bharat Rashtra Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
US Rep Ilhan Omar calls Trumps remarks on Somalis Islamophobic, says he has a creepy obsession
President Donald Trump launched a fresh tirade against the Somali-American community and Congresswoman Ilhan Omar and called them 'garbage'. Trump also said he heard Ilhan Omar has married her brother, adding that she tries to deny it but it has happened. Ilhan Omar hit back at Trump and called him a 'creep'.
'Complain, complain, complain..': Trump launches fierce attack on Ilhan Omar in fiery Somalia Rant
US halts immigration applications from 19 barred nations
The ban applied to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen while the restricted access applied to people from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela
Trump says he doesnt want Somalis in US, urges them to go back to their homeland and fix it
WASHINGTON:President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he did not want Somali immigrants in the US, saying residents of the war-ravaged eastern African country are too reliant on US social safety net and add little to the United States. Trumps contemptuous description of the entire immigrant community is the latest example of him pointedly attacking the []
Trump calls Somalis 'garbage'; tells them to go 'back to where they came from'
President Donald Trump expressed his desire to halt Somali immigration to the United States. He stated that Somalis are too reliant on social safety nets and contribute little to the nation. Trump's comments follow recent actions by his administration regarding asylum decisions. He also renewed criticism of Representative Ilhan Omar, a Somali-American congresswoman.
'We Don't Want Them': Trump Rages Against Somali Immigrants
Trump's heated remarks come as a scandal unfolds in the state of Minnesota where prosecutors say more than $1 billion went to non-existent social services, largely through false billing by Somali Americans
'Ilhan Omar is a garbage...':Trumps fiery remarks accuse Somali refugees of ripping off Minnesota
U.P. reports highest number of complaints over shoddy Jal Jeevan Mission work
Action had been taken against 621 Departmental Officials, 969 contractors, and 153 Third Party Inspection Agencies (TPIAs), the Minister of State for Jal Shakti, V Somanna, said
17,036 complaints received under Jal Jeevan Mission from States, Union Territories: Centre
Action has so far been taken against 621 departmental officials, 969 contractors, and 153 Third-Party Inspection Agencies (TPIAs) across the country, says V. Somanna
'Maharashtras Al Falah': ED Raids Against Nandurbar Trust In FCRA Case, Kirit Somaiya Reacts
ED raided Jamia Ismalia Ishatul Uloom trust sites over alleged FCRA violations involving Al-Khadami Khaled Ibrahim Saleh. Earlier, the MHA had cancelled its FCRA registration.
Aster DM Healthcare , one of Indias largest healthcare providers, is rapidly advancing the future of surgical care in India, driven by the widespread adoption of robotic-assisted surgery across its network of hospitals. Surgeons at Aster DM Healthcare utilise next-generation robotic systems to deliver safer, faster and more precise surgical outcomes Within Asters India networkincluding Aster Medcity, Aster Whitefield, Aster RV, Aster CMI and othersrobotic-assisted surgery is used across urology, oncology, gynaecology and orthopaedics, while expanding into liver and kidney transplants and neurosurgery. With 1,900 robotic surgeries last year and 1,300 already this fiscal, growth is strong. Supported by Da Vinci and SSI Mantra platforms, Aster ensures equitable, high-quality, precision-led care across metro and non-metro locations in India today and beyond. Prof. Dr. Somashekar, Chairman Medical Advisory Board, Aster DM Healthcare (GCC & India) and Global Director Aster International Institute of Oncology , said, Robotic-assisted surgery represents one of the most meaningful advancements in modern healthcare, not just for its precision but for the dignity and comfort it restores to patients. At Aster, we have paired cutting-edge robotic platforms with strong clinical training to ensure these technologies truly elevate patient outcomes. The future of surgery lies in this balance where innovation enhances the surgeons capability while compassionate care remains at the heart of every decision. A recent milestone underscoring this commitment was Keralas first robotic-assisted coronary artery bypass surgery, performed at Aster Medcity. The procedure, paired with the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol, resulted in smaller incisions, faster recovery, minimal scarring, and a reduced risk of post-operative complicationsdemonstrating the transformative impact of robotics in high-end cardiac care. As Aster continues to integrate robotics responsibly and compassionately across its hospitals, the organisation is shaping a new era of surgical excellenceone where cutting-edge innovation meets empathetic, patient-centric care. About Aster DM Healthcare, India Aster DM Healthcare Limited is one of the largest healthcare service providers operating in India with a strong presence across primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary healthcare through 20 hospitals with 5,199 beds, 10 clinics, 203 pharmacies (Operated by Alfaone Retail Pharmacies Private Limited under brand license from Aster), and 283 labs and patient experience centers across 5 states in India, delivering a simple yet strong promise to different stakeholders: Well Treat You Well.
'Should throw her hell out of country...': Trump hits out at Congresswoman Ilhan Omar 'from Somalia'
Insider track | A simple pat, big ripples in the BJP
A small gesture from Amit Shaha brief pat on the back of a Union Minister during a victory dinner at JP Naddas residencehas set BJP circles buzzing louder than the Bihar win itself. The pat came after Nadda offered the minister sweets in appreciation of his role in helping the BJP emerge as the single largest party. The moment was witnessed by MPs and MLAs who worked on the campaign, and many now see the minister as a serious contender to eventually succeed Nadda as BJP president. At the same dinner, Nadda hand-fed sweets to Dharmendra Pradhan, Vinod Tawde and Keshav Prasad Mauryasignalling bigger organisational roles ahead. The evening, insiders say, doubled as both celebration and subtle messaging. AICC media wing in the firing line The Congress high command may be publicly introspecting after the Bihar debacle, but insiders say the first head on the chopping block is the AICC communication and media department. Many in the party believe the unit completely misread the Bihar momentpress meets were irregular, messaging was unclear, and social media outreach was barely visible. For several leaders, the loss was less an electoral setback than the final confirmation that the communication strategy had been running on fumes. Jairam Rameshs three-year stint as general secretary in charge of communication is nearing its end. Pawan Khera and Supriya Shrinate have been working with him. Whether the leadership opts for a sweeping restructuring or a cautious course correction remains to be seen. A few got it all wrong Despite clear instructions from PM Narendra Modi and Cabinet Secretary T V Somanathan urging secretaries to amplify government schemes and citizen-centric programmes, a few newly appointed secretaries seem more focused on promoting themselves than their ministries. Particularly in a ministry led by a non-BJP minister, three secretaries recently splashed their own pictures across X and LinkedIncourtesy outsourced social-media handlers armed with AI-written posts riddled with errorsshowcasing mundane internal meetings of no public consequence. This self-branding spree, observers say, has raised eyebrows within senior bureaucracy. Instead of highlighting public-facing initiatives, these officers appear busy building their post-retirement portfolios. The big question floating in North Block corridors: when did government communication turn into an exercise in personal PR? Buzz on Gujarat model on liquor The buzz in JDU circles is that Bihar CM Nitish Kumar may be preparing to ease the states nine-year liquor ban. JDU leaders in Delhi are already in celebratory mode, with one senior leader admitting that election expenses shot up after the ban because liquor still had to be procured illegally for workers and voters. Nitish, however, is believed to be wary of antagonising women voters, so a total rollback is unlikely. Instead, he may emulate Gujarats dry but flexible modelcontrolled permits, alcohol allowed in top hotels, and regulated wine-and-dine zones for visitors. Liquor for medical reasons and hospitality-linked permits may also return. A key JDU leader coordinating with the BJP claims he has already nudged Nitish toward the Gujarat-style relaxation. RS caps maiden speeches at 15 mins Newly elected Rajya Sabha members will now have just 15 minutesno moreto deliver their maiden speeches. A bulletin issued under the direction of the Chairman notes that several first-time MPs had previously exceeded their time, throwing the House schedule into disarray. The new limit aims to maintain discipline and protect subsequent business. The upcoming Winter Session will see four new members from Jammu & KashmirSajjad Ahmed Kichloo, Gurvinder Oberoi, Chaudhary Mohammad Ramzan (all NC) and BJPs Satpal Sharmatesting the new rule as they make their parliamentary debut.
DANTEWADA: Thirty-seven Naxalites, 27 of them collectively carrying a reward of Rs 65 lakh, surrendered in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district on Sunday, police said. The cadres, including 12 women, turned themselves in before senior police and CRPF officials here as part of the Poona Margem (from rehabilitation to social reintegration) initiative, Dantewada Superintendent of Police Gaurav Rai said. The initiative, launched by Bastar range police, has been emerging as a transformative drive for establishing lasting peace, dignity and comprehensive progress in Bastar region, he said. The key cadres among those who surrendered include Kumali alias Anita Mandavi, Geeta alias Lakshmi Madkam, Ranjan alias Soma Mandavi and Bhima alias Jahaj Kalmu. All of them carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh each, the official said. Under the government's rehabilitation policy, the cadres who have surrendered will be provided instant assistance of Rs 50,000 each along with other facilities, like training for skill development, agricultural land, etc, he said. Inspired by the surrender and rehabilitation policies of the Centre and the state government, more than 508 Maoists, 165 of them carrying a reward, have quit violence and joined the social mainstream in Dantewada district over the past 20 months, the official said. A large number of Maoists, from senior leaders to active cadres in their base areas, have left the outlawed organisation, Rai said. In the last 23 months, more than 2,200 Naxalites, including top cadres, have surrendered in Chhattisgarh, according to police. The Centre has resolved to eliminate Naxalism from the country by March 2026.
Everyone free to eat what they want but dont provoke others
Pazhayidom Mohanan Namboothiri, the master chef of school arts festivals for the past two decades, is an unassuming individual who swears by the divinity of cooking, a task demanding utmost passion and deep dedication. In a freewheeling chat with TNIE, he opens up about his culinary journey spanning over three decades, why he believes in the individual freedom to choose what to eat, the controversies over beef and menu in school festivals, and the speciality of the much-talked about traditional Kerala sadya. Excerpts Youve made a name for yourself in Keralas culinary world. But its said your entry was accidental Yes. After acquiring my masters in physics, I struggled to get a job. I attended around 126 tests in five years, but with little luck. During those days in the 80s, Brahmins had two other options priesthood and cooking. I chose cooking because it gives instant results. Those days, you were an ardent admirer of M T Vasudevan Nair. Its heard that you passed through a phase of existential dilemma In my birthplace Kurichithanam there was a library in our neighbourhood. Reading became a habit since Class 5. Reading and travelling gifted me experiences. Thats how I developed a craze for MTs works. I also loved the poetry of Ayyappa Paniker and Balachandran Chullikkad. At the time, I had visited most states, as part of job-hunting. In between, I tried my luck in business and other small ventures. But they failed, and resulted in financial liabilities. I even thought of ending life. That was a period after Kerala society had undergone several changes. As a member of the Brahmin community, what was your life like then? The situation wasnt favourable for educated and qualified people. Reservation is a big problem. In that sense, I feel a uniform civil code is necessary. Imagine people standing in a queue under a hot sun. Some are invited and given lemon juice. The rest are excluded. Back then, such was the scenario. Opportunities were fewer. I wasnt very bright... my life evolved through reading and travel. Since you belong to a forward community, it was natural to have such an opinion. But do you still hold the same view? Certainly. Back then, I even had an inferiority complex for being a Brahmin. Now, in many places, there are attempts to make people Brahmins by giving them poonool (sacred thread) and teaching them mantras. It was the reverse then. I thought about the possibility of getting into the reservation category. It (reservation) is something which should not have been done in a place like India. From my travel to other countries, I understood there is no reservation there. People get employment based on merit. Skill should be the criterion, shouldnt it? Wasnt it necessary during that period, considering the social situation then? True, but how far have we changed from the social situation back then? Today, while beneficiaries of reservation occupy the highest levels of society, many from my community struggle for food, although they do not reveal it because of self-esteem or false pride. You mentioned the rigours of being a Namboothiri. Any perks of being a Namboothiri? My name is P D Mohanan. I changed it to Pazhayidom Namboothiri to establish myself as a cook. The tag found acceptance among people. Isnt there apathy from within your community towards those employed as cooks? In the 2000s, cooks were akin to aanakkar (those looking after elephants) and vedikkettukar (those engaged in fireworks). People engaged in cooking usually didnt present themselves well, didnt wash, ate pan, and dressed untidily. I could change this make them believe they have a place in society. Nowadays, cooks appear in whites (smiles). You once said business isnt meant for Namboothiris Successful ones are very rare. There could be two reasons. One, lying is quite difficult for them. Nobody can do business truthfully. One should know how to hide certain truths. Secondly, business is not meant for people who dont know how to handle money. They dont have much idea on aspects like utilisation of finances, investments, and returns. How did your situation change after those bitter life experiences? After my unsuccessful business venture, I got a job at a book stall in Ottapalam. While there, I happened to befriend a person, someone who handled funerals. He was a charming personality and a voracious reader, proficient in Malayalam, Sanskrit and English. I learnt lifes basics from him. I learnt that we cannot judge a person by his colour or job. He suggested that I try my hand at cooking and encouraged me to take up the profession. My career started with cooking for some 50 persons gathered at a local temple for namajapam. Had you tried cooking at home? No. Even today, I cant do it. My basic unit is a serving for 100 people. I can do any multiples of that. But anything below 100 would be an utter flop (laughs out). Isnt that easier than preparing food for 10,000 people? My interest grows with the number of people. Its a great pleasure to cook for a lakh (laughs). But it will be difficult if you ask me to cook for ten. I dont know how to prepare a dish with one or one-and-a-half spoons of ingredients. Women who cook at home are the best at that. The taste of homely food lies in their care and goodness. Its different from the commercial cooking I do. Did you have such love for cooking initially? It took five years to learn even the basics. I kind of established myself in 2001-02 when I prepared food for a Travancore royal family ceremony. It has been 25 years since you became the chef for school youth festivals. What changes have you noticed over the period? In the initial years, there was mass contribution... people and students would pool resources. Local residents would volunteer to assist. These were then not just events, but a place of togetherness. Also, back then, it was just a simple meal. Now, theres more diversity, including payasam on all days. In 2009, the current form of youth festival started... a common festival replaced separate events for HS, HSS, VHSS. Workload increased. Though the number of festival days was reduced, we increased the number of items by 20%. Do you follow the same menu, irrespective of the place, or make changes in line with regional differences? We usually follow the Travancore style, but also include a regional dish as a special item. Do you have the freedom to fix the menu? Earlier, we did, but stopped it with the 2023 controversy. Now, its an e-tender, wherein the menu is given. That said, we still retain the flexibility to make minor adjustments based on practical experience. Whats your focus, more dishes or more special items? We limit the menu to 12 dishes, but we experiment with payasams to add variety. There are so many possibilities... weve even created yam and pumpkin payasams. How have your travels influenced your approach to food preparation? Food exists to satisfy hunger and taste is born from hunger. If someone isnt hungry, eating loses its meaning. Ive seen people struggling to find food as well as prepare it. Such experiences made me view cooking as a form of worship. It taught me that serving food isnt just a taskit is a divine responsibility. Viewed as such, we approach it with true commitment. When we view the process of cooking and serving as divine, taste naturally follows. Its said that you start cooking with a prayer I always pray before cooking. No matter how busy we are, we never begin cooking without first taking a bath. Food is meant to be served to others, so we must treat it with respect and care. We also make it a point not to waste food. What exactly do you pray? My first prayer is that nothing untoward happens to any child because of the food. Second, my own actions should never harm the food. Third, my attention should not falter. Is there any truth in the saying that food tastes better when cooked on firewood? Vessels placed on firewood receive even heat, while on a gas stove, maximum heat is concentrated directly above the burner, increasing the risk of burning. Firewood allows slow cooking, which enhances flavour. The only caution is to ensure that smoke does not seep into the food. Each district differs in food preferences. What is Keralas food habit per se? Its difficult to define a single food habit for Kerala. We need to look at traditions that existed even before the formation of the state. Food practices vary widely across regions. For instance, in areas north of Kozhikode, non-vegetarian dishes are inseparable from daily meals. The food habits of northern, southern, and central Kerala cannot really be compared. What about authenticity of food? Everyone claims their food is the most authentic. In Thiruvananthapuram, people prefer dishes arranged in three layers on the banana leaf almost like a rainbow. For them, appearance matters more than taste. In northern Kerala, the spread is simpler, but they are very particular about flavour. Which sadya is better? Isnt the Thiruvananthapuram sadya considered superior? People may claim, but no one can insist thats the absolute truth (laughs). How about the serving style? In Thiruvananthapuram, people are very particular about the order of serving. For instance, if you serve pulissery before pradhaman, they may stop eating altogether. In other regions, this isnt the case. Is there a specific gastronomic order to follow in a sadya? Not really. A vegetarian sadya is built around six fundamental tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent, and astringent. Whether the sadya has 10 dishes or 36, basic taste elements remain the same. The idea that digestion depends on following a strict sequence is not accurate, but certain practices do matter. You are vegetarian. How do you manage non-vegetarian dishes? We have a separate team and separate utensils for non-veg items. Whats your favourite food? I enjoy rice with curd and cut-mango-pickle. If rasam is added, Im even happier. Your take on the controversy over non-veg food during the school arts fest in 2023 The government provides an estimate about the number of people whod dine. The exact count is way different. Last year, the government said thered be 12,000 diners daily. But 20,000 people ate each day. Non-veg cannot be given to so many people. Food is prepared in a single kitchen and preparing meat is impossible. Even if meat is supplied, it will rot by the time its taken for preparation. Else, the government should install a freezer and a generator. In school games, food is prepared in five kitchens. Hence, non-veg dishes are served there. Politics over food is heating up Human digestive system is seven times longer than the height of a person. Digesting non-veg food is difficult, and could lead to health issues. Human body is more suited for a vegetarian diet, but now humans are used to being non-vegetarian. Brahmins too consume non-veg... Brahmins consuming non-vegetarian food is not unusual. Bengali Brahmins and some Maharashtrian Brahmins traditionally eat fish and do not claim to be strict vegetarians. Their food habits are shaped by regional culture. Kerala follows a different system, where certain Brahmin communities practise vegetarianism strictly. This has contributed to a perception that all Brahmins must be vegetarian, and in some cases, it has also created a sense of superiority among groups who identify strongly with vegetarian practices. Personally, I dont believe that some Brahmins have higher status. Ultimately, such divisions are meaningless. It is up to each individual to decide their way of life, including what they eat. The problem arises when one insists that you should eat what I eat. Vegetarian or non-vegetarian food, which one is good for health? Non-vegetarian food can boost stamina quickly. But its wrong to say that vegetarians have no strength. Vegetarian food boosts stamina slowly. Look at elephants; they are incredibly strong, yet they eat only plant-based food. Does the food we eat affect our character? Hitler was a vegetarian, yet he was an extremely cruel man. Food alone does not determine a persons character. Some people say eating spicy or salty food can make a person angry. There are people who get irritated easily after eating such food. The food we eat helps build body and health, but does not automatically shape our nature or behaviour. A non-vegetarian does not become short-tempered because of meat, neither does a vegetarian become peaceful by avoiding meat. Personality depends on the individual, not on whether they eat vegetarian or non-vegetarian food. On the changing food culture in Kerala, especially Arabic food Arabic food culture has adversely impacted the health of Keralites. Sudden changes in diet and the habit of eating food unsuited to our system have led to numerous health issues. Having such dishes occasionally is fine, but making it a regular habit just because they are popular is not right. Food should match climate and lifestyle. A major reason behind such trends is social media. Food bloggers and influencers constantly promote and encourage people to try dishes without considering health. How has the spread in traditional functions evolved? Over the years, the menu served during traditional functions has undergone a noticeable change. Earlier, the practice was to keep the previous days meal simple and light. Even non-vegetarian items, if served, were limited and uncomplicated. Today, the simplicity of the pre-wedding menu has largely disappeared. Heavy non-veg meals and elaborate spreads have become common even on the previous day. The sadya, once reserved for the wedding day, is now served frequently across various functions. The number of sadyas has increased, while exclusivity and ritual significance of the feast have decreased. Is non-vegetarianism increasing in Kerala? Non-vegetarianism itself has not necessarily increased, but there has been a noticeable shift in food habits. Many who were traditionally vegetarian now eat non-vegetarian food, while some non-vegetarians have moved towards vegetarian options. In short, there has been an interchange of preferences over the years. Why are vegetarian hotels shutting down? One major issue is that genuinely good vegetarian hotels, especially hygienic ones, are becoming rare in Kerala. This decline is not because people have stopped eating vegetarian food, but because many vegetarian establishments fail to maintain standards such as attractive interiors, clean and well-presented spaces, or even neat uniforms. Non-vegetarian hotels, on the other hand, generally maintain certain standards whether it is the quality of food, hygiene, or affordability. You once served sadya to PM Narendra Modi. How was the experience? I had the opportunity to serve a traditional Kerala sadya to Narendra Modi during the BJP national council meet. It was a completely vegetarian sadya. Cooking the sadya was quite challenging because of the security setup. But everything went smoothly. He ate the whole sadya; not a single item was left on the plantain leaf. He told me the food was excellent. I had prepared around 30 items including four varieties of payasam. I have prepared food for our chief minister too. Which is the most difficult food to cook veg, non-veg, or north Indian? Most difficult to prepare is vegetarian food, because each item has to be cooked separately in its own vessel, with its own method and time. In non-vegetarian cooking, if you make two gravies and one masala paste, you can finish many dishes. In north India too, most items have a gravy base, and once that is prepared, many dishes can be completed. In Kerala, beef is a political topic. People discuss whether eating beef is right or wrong. Whats your view? If you ask me whether it is wrong to eat beef, I will say no. People have the freedom to eat what they want. If someone tells us not to slaughter cattle, then what do we do with the animals that are already old and nearing death? I dont think eating beef is wrong. Politicians project the issue in a certain way thats the real problem. People should be free to choose what they eat, but they should not hurt others in the process. If you want to eat, eat... but dont try to provoke others. We talk about diversity, but real diversity is respecting individuals. Each person should be able to live according to their own beliefs. If someone sits next to you and eats non-veg, do you feel uncomfortable? Sometimes I might. In such cases, I try to sit elsewhere, where I feel comfortable. Kerala is known as a spice capital, yet our traditional meals are actually mild and subtle Traditional Kerala food is not very spicy. But now, the interest in spicy food has increased. It depends on what people have grown used to. You have been cooking for the past 27 years. How do you look at your life now? I have served food to 2.6 crore students. I have understood that this job has its own dignity and divinity. Ive no disappointments. I believe I was able to win peoples trust. TNIE team: Cithara Paul, Anil S, Aparna Nair, Parvana K B, Varsha SomarajVincent Pulickal (photos) Pranav V P(video)
After a six-year pause, TEDxThiruvananthapuram is preparing for a comeback on December 20, at Technopark Phase III. The 2025 edition carries the theme Local Mission, Global Vision, and marks the beginning of a fresh chapter for the city-branded TEDx event. TEDxThiruvananthapuram began in 2016 and ran three editions under licence-holder Vishnu Prasad. When he migrated to a different country, the event slowly slipped into silence. Earlier this year, the responsibility fell to Arun Surendran, strategic director and principal of Trinity College of Engineering. A city-based label carries its own kind of weight. There are TEDx events by IIST, CET, and the College of Agriculture Vellayani. But their possibilities stay within the campus. A city licence gives a wider canvas, he says. When the license was granted, we felt a responsibility. We are organising this in the name of the city, so it has to be the best possible version of the event. Since this is a revival edition, the team decided to begin small. They are keeping it to a half-day event with a carefully curated format. There are only 100 seats this year, and 70 of them are open to the public. This years event brings together eight speakers from very different fields. Former ISRO Chairman S Somanath, who led the Chandrayaan-3 soft landing mission, will speak about his journey. Seeram Sambasiva Rao IAS, known for projects such as Nammude Kozhikode, KFON, and Ente Bhoomi, will share insights from his administrative work. Nizamudeen A IAS, Director of the Kerala Institute of Local Administration, brings the governance perspective. Rima Kallingal Dance practitioneracademic Methil Devika, actor and screenwriter Santhy Balachandran, academic and researcher Litty Chacko (known for her work on medieval mathematician Sangamagrama Madhavan and the Kerala School of Mathematics), theatre and television actor Sajana Chandran S (who retired as joint general manager at AAI), and race director of Kovalam Marathon Shinomol Palathanath, complete the speaker line-up. Talks will run from 2pm to 6pm, each session restricted to 1518 minutes. Also, TED has allowed the organisers to have Malayalam talks this year as long as subtitles are provided. All these talks will go up on the official TEDx channel, which has over 45 million subscribers, Arun says. Next year, the team plans to scale up. It will be a full-day event with more speakers and more themes. This year, the priority was to bring TEDxThiruvananthapuram back, revive it with the highest possible quality. Once that foundation is strong, we can grow it, keep improving it, and steadily increase the Malayalam content, he adds. The ticket price has been set at `2,500. To register, visit: tedxthiruvananthapuram.com .
A New Generation of Digital Marketers Steering India's Rapidly Evolving Landscape
Indias digital marketing environment is undergoing rapid change. Algorithmic shifts, rising media costs, and evolving audience behaviour are prompting brands to reconsider traditional approaches. In a landscape where authentic, straightforward communication often performs better than heavily produced content, adaptability has become essential. Vipluv Rana and Neha Rana Co-founders 28 DigiTech Operating within this shift is 28 DigiTech , a young agency established six months ago by Neha Rana and Vipluv Rana , professionals with nearly 15 years of experience in digital strategy and communication. The agency was formed with the intention of responding to the changing expectations of digital audiences and the increasing need for agile content and campaign design. In a short period, 28 DigiTech has worked with a number of institutions in Indias higher education sector, a category that places significant emphasis on credibility and targeted communication. Its growing client list includes: KIIT University, IIT Bombay Educational Outreach, Somaiya Vidyavihar University, Krea University, SPJIMR, ISBR, Jindal Global University, Panipat Institute of Engineering & Technology (PIET), Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), Maxme, Q&I Today (from the promoters of India Today Group) to name a few. The agency has also crossed a turnover of 1 crore within six months, reflecting steady demand for strategic digital solutions rooted in audience understanding. Commenting on todays digital environment, Co-founder Neha Rana states, The old digital formula doesnt work anymore. You cant outspend your way to attention. You have to out-think it. The audience is smarter, faster, and more instinctive than ever so our content has to be, too. Adding to this, Co-founder Vipluv Rana explains , We come from the same world our audience lives in. We know what makes them scroll, skip, and stop because were part of that tribe . Our goal is to make an impact and deliver measurable results to our clients. The founders further state the approach that defines 28 DigiTech: Raw Over Refined: A focus on communication that prioritises authenticity and real-world relevance. Agile, Not Aged: A structure designed for rapid decision-making, enabling campaigns to adapt quickly to changing platform and audience dynamics. Data-Led Creativity: Creative development grounded in insights, performance tracking, and measurable results Education at the Core: A strong and growing presence in the higher education sector, driving measurable outcomes. Results, Not Rhetoric: Campaigns built around effectiveness, relevance, and sustained impact delivering desired reach and ROI As India's digital ecosystem expands, organisations are increasingly looking for partners who combine strategic clarity with an understanding of evolving user behaviour. Agencies that can respond quickly to shifts in the digital environment are becoming more relevant to brands seeking sustained visibility and engagement. Through its early work, 28 DigiTech echoes the industrys gradual shift toward more adaptive, insight-driven digital communication.The agencys trajectory highlights the growing importance of responsiveness and audience understanding in shaping contemporary marketing outcomes.
Former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad seeks better cricket support in Karnataka
SHIVAMOGGA: Former Cricketer and aspirant for KSCA chairmans post, Venkatesh Prasad said his team would make honest efforts, if he gets elected for the post. Talking to media on Friday, Venkatesh Prasad said the M Chinnaswamy Stadium was constructed with an intention to nurture and develop cricket in the state and to provide an opportunity for the people to witness matches. Becasue of June 4 incident all national and international matches have been stopped, he said. For the past three years development of cricket in the state has come to a standstill. If our team wins the election, then it would not only makes effort to develop and nurture the talents of the state besides making efforts to re-start the matches to be played at Chinnaswamy, he said. Bengaluru has a great fan base and even Franchise matches are shifting to different place. This is not good in the interest of cricket development in the state, he said. Former cricketer Sujith Somasundar contesting for Vice-presidentship, Madhukar Nagaraj for treasurer post, A V Shashidhar for the post of joint secretary. There were about 1,900 voters including both life members and Institutional Members (IM), he said. Venkatesh Prasad urged the voters to vote for better cricket development tomorrow and to develop the talented youths to develop their career in cricket. Santhosh Menon and others were present.
Bengaluru animal shelters struggle to handle surge in stray dogs after SC orders removal
BENGALURU: Animal shelters across the city are reporting a surge in distress calls following the recent Supreme Court order allowing the removal of stray dogs from public places under specific conditions. Rescuers said that many Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) have begun relocating community dogs, triggering fear among feeders and a spike in complaints of harassment. Several dogs have reportedly gone missing, while shelters say they are struggling to handle the sudden increase in rescue and surrender requests. Lakshmi Swaminathan, founder of Mylos Rescue, said the order has led to widespread panic and misuse. Shelters are overwhelmed. RWAs are moving dogs without understanding the law, and many feeders are being threatened. Were getting constant calls about missing animals, and we simply dont have the capacity to take in every case, she said. She said only aggressive or suspected rabid dogs can legally be taken for observation. Dog-rescuer Shraavya Satyanarayan said the situation has intensified hostility toward community animals. Misconceptions that have existed for years are now being treated as justified, she said. The real issue is the failure of vaccination and sterilisation systems, not the dogs. Removal is neither ecological nor practical. Strengthening pet ownership rules and improving ABC programmes are the only long-term solutions. For long-time feeders, the fear is personal and emotional. Vinay Raj Somashekar, who has been caring for around 40 community dogs in his neighbourhood for nearly seven years, described living with constant anxiety. Nothing has happened here yet, but that fear is always there, that one day a truck will come and take away the dogs Ive known since they were pups, he said. Theyre vaccinated, sterilised, and part of our daily lives. Losing them would be like losing family. Animal welfare groups caution that sudden removals destabilise territories and may lead to increased aggression, safety issues, and further conflict. They are urging authorities to issue clear public guidelines, conduct awareness drives, and ensure that RWAs follow legal procedures rather than taking matters into their own hands.
Karnatakas Narayanpur & Aihole combine ancient wisdom with innovation, says MoS Somanna
Minister V Somanna highlighted Karnataka's water management. The Narayanpur left bank canal SCADA system showcases modern technology for efficient water distribution. The Aihole temple step-well demonstrates ancient wisdom in water conservation. India faces water scarcity, making conservation crucial. Government missions like Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission have improved water access and sanitation.
Delhi traders try to cremate mannequin to claim insurance money, arrested in UP
HAPUR: Two Delhi-based traders were arrested here after they allegedly tried to cremate a mannequin instead of a human body as part of an elaborate plot to fraudulently claim insurance money worth Rs 50 lakh to pay a debt, police said on Friday. The bizarre sequence unfolded when four men arrived in a Haryana-registered car with what they claimed was a corpse. They bought ghee and other items required for the last rites and quietly placed the ody on a pyre. However, their nervous behaviour caught the attention of Nitin, a municipal employee present at the cremation ghat. When he pulled the sheet covering the ody, he found that it was actually a mannequin on the pyre. He immediately alerted the municipal authorities, police said. After receiving information about the incident, a police team rushed to the spot and recovered the car of the accused along with three mannequins. Two of the accused -- Kamal Somani and his associate Ashish Khurana, both residents of Jain Colony in Delhi's Uttam Nagar -- were arrested. Two of their associates managed to escape, police said. During interrogation, Somani, a textile trader, confessed that he had a debt of Rs 50 lakh and had been depressed for months. To repay the amount, he devised an elaborate scheme. He obtained the Aadhaar and PAN cards of Anshul, the brother of his employee Neeraj, on the pretext of some paperwork, took out a Rs 50 lakh Tata AIA insurance policy in Anshul's name nearly a year ago, and had been paying the premiums regularly, said Circle Officer Stuti Singh. The plan was to send Anshul out of town, pass the mannequin off as his body, cremate it to obtain an official receipt from the cremation ground, secure a death certificate, and then claim the insurance payout, police said. Police used Somani's phone to video call Anshul, who was in Prayagraj. He told police he had no idea his death was being staged at Brijghat, they said. Circle Officer Singh said it was a case of insurance fraud. An investigation is underway and efforts are on to trace the absconding suspects, she said.
DC shooting aftermath: US to re-examine Green Card holders
These countries are Afghanistan, Myanmar, Burundi, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela and Yemen.
BJPs Somaiya BLASTS Uddhav Sena & Congress over Jamia Islamia Ishatul Uloom University controversy
A spectacular total solar eclipse is set for August 2, 2027. This 'eclipse of the century' will provide the longest totality on land this century. The path of darkness will cross Spain, Morocco, Egypt, and Somalia. While the whole world will not go dark, those in the path will see an eerie twilight for over six minutes.
Illegal & Impossible!: Trumps threat to terminate Somali TPS sparks massive backlash in Minnesota
Kristi Noem defends Trump ending Somali TPS: 'It was never an asylum program'
VP's Call to Officials to Check Tax Evasion
The VP visited the NACIN campus at Palasamudram in Somandepalli mandal in Satya Sai district on Sunday
Somanna terms State government as directionless
Trump Says He is Ending Temporary Deportation Protections For Somalis In Minnesota
Trump decision could hurt mixed-status families, rights advocate says
Pune cops bust arms-making units in MP village; 36 detained, huge cache of illegal weapons seized
PUNE: The Pune police on Saturday busted a major inter-state illegal arms manufacturing and trafficking racket being operated from Umarti village in Barwani district of Madhya Pradesh, leading to the detention of 36 persons and seizure of a huge cache of illegal weapons, officials said. The operation was conducted after several pistols were seized in Pune city over the last three weeks with the supply links found in Madhya Pradesh, they said. During the operation, carried out jointly with the MP police, 50 furnaces, where weapons were being manufactured illegally, were destroyed, they said. Addressing a press conference, Pune's Joint Commissioner of Police Ranjan Kumar Sharma said, The Pune police conducted a combing operation in Madhya Pradesh. During the investigation of cases registered at the city's Vimantal and Kalepadal police stations, we received multiple inputs about the pistol making units located in MP. Police from Pune and Madhya Pradesh jointly carried out this action. Raids were conducted at several locations and arms-making units were demolished. A total of 36 people were taken into custody, he said. Over the past three weeks, a total of 21 pistols had been seized in Pune. During the interrogation of the accused held in the city, it came to light that the weapons brought to Pune were sourced from Madhya Pradesh. After that this operation was planned and carried out, the official added. This is a supply chain of weapons. Search is on for those who sent these weapons to Pune. Many more individuals are involved in this racket, and inquiry is still underway, the Joint CP said. A team of 105 police personnel from Pune, led by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Somay Munde, took part in the operation.
Trump says he's terminating legal protections for Somali migrants in Minnesota
Minnesota has the nation's largest Somali community. Many fled the long civil war in their east African country and were drawn to the state's welcoming social programs.
Trump says hes terminating legal protections for Somali migrants in Minnesota
Congress created the program grantingTemporary Protective Statusin 1990. It was meant to prevent deportations of people to countries suffering from natural disasters, civil strife or other dangerous conditions
Two satellite-tagged Amur falcons have successfully completed their nearly 5,000-kilometer migration from Manipur, India, to Somalia. These birds, tracked under a wildlife project, undertook an extraordinary nonstop flight across the Arabian Sea. This remarkable journey highlights the species' incredible flight capacity and successful conservation efforts.
Art of Living Wins Top National Awards for Reviving Rivers and Strengthening Water Security
Founded by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, The Art of Living has been nationally recognised for its large scale environmental leadership with two prestigious honours at the 6th National Water Awards and the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Awards 1.0 presented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. Receiving the Best NGO for Water Conservation title along with a national recognition under the Best Civil Society category, the organisation continues to shape Indias water security and ecological resilience with impactful, community driven action. Shri Prasana Prabhu and Shri Br. Pragyachaitanya receiving the Best Civil Society Award from Union Jal Shakti Minister Shri C.R. Patil The award was received by Shri Prasana Prabhu, Chairman of Art of Livings Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Trust (AOL-SSIAST) and the Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (AOL-SSRDP), along with Shri Br Pragyachaitanya , Chairman of Art of Livings Vyakti Vikas Kendra. The Art of Living proudly receives the Best NGO Award for Water Conservation The ceremony was graced by the Honble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, underscoring the national importance of water sustainability. She was joined by Shri C. R. Patil, Union Jal Shakti Minister, Shri V. Somanna and Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Ministers of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Ashok K. K. Meena, Secretary, Drinking Water and Sanitation, and Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Water Resources and Ganga Rejuvenation. During the ceremony, President Smt Droupadi Murmu noted that climate change is disrupting the water cycle and stressed that government and citizens must work together with steady commitment toward water availability and water security. She highlighted that along with water treatment and recirculation, several industrial units have already achieved zero pollutant discharge. Reinforcing the spirit of national collaboration, Shri C. R. Patil praised the efforts of organisations contributing to Jal Sanchay and Janbhagidari . In this movement, The Art of Living has emerged as a key contributor by reviving 75+ rivers and creating more than 1,05,000 recharge structures that conserve over 174 billion litres of water. This work has improved water access for 3.45 crore people across 20,000 villages, strengthening community resilience. Aligned with the national call for shared responsibility, AOL SSRDP is driving a measurable impact on the ground. The organisation has been reducing water pollution by treating contaminated water, promoting the recirculation of processed water, and preventing further discharge of pollutants into rivers and water bodies. Through its JalShuddhi initiative, it has restored 152 polluted water bodies, strengthening groundwater recharge and urban water resilience. This includes the revival of 102 temple ponds in Chennai, 11 drains in Agra, 24 drains in Pune, and the Barapulla drain in Delhi NCR, creating clear evidence of sustained ecological healing driven by community participation and scientific intervention. Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, said that the Namami Gange Mission has become a national model for pollution control and river basin rejuvenation. In this direction, AOL-SSIAST is promoting Natural Farming in Uttar Pradeshs Kanpur and Raebareli, ensuring cleaner recharge into the Ganga. Under the Namami Gange Project, more than 4,500 farmers have been trained and about 3,500 hectares converted to chemical free cultivation along the river. This shift is reducing chemical runoff and strengthening water conservation in the basin. Till now AOL-SSIAST has trained 3 million farmers across 24 states and facilitated the planting of 100 million trees in 36 countries. On receiving the award, Chairman (AOL-SSIAST & AOL-SSRDP)Shri Prasana Prabhu said, I offer my heartfelt gratitude to the Honble President of India, the Ministry of Jal Shakti, and every volunteer and partner supporting this mission. This recognition strengthens our resolve to advance water conservation and pollution mitigation. About The Art of Living 800 million lives impacted in 180 countries 75+ rivers and tributaries revived 3 million farmers trained in Natural Farming across 24 states 100 million trees planted in 36 countries and 26 states 8,00,000+ lives transformed, with the Prison Program active in 65 countries 4,75,000+ youth trained in livelihood skills across 500 districts 1,327 free schools educating 1,00,000+ children in 2,032 villages Support the Mission ssrdp.artofliving.org/donate-ssrdp Join Us in Making a Difference AOL-SSIAST AOL-SSRDP ssiast.artofliving.org ssrdp.artofliving.org x.com/ssiast x.com/srisrirdp www.facebook.com/ssiast.artofliving www.facebook.com/SriSriRDP instagram.com/ssiast_artofliving www.instagram.com/srisrirdp www.youtube.com/@SSIAST www.youtube.com/@srisriRDP
Looking good is temporary. Feeling good is timeless believes the actor-runner.
12-Year-Old Girl Washed Away In Musi River
The victim was identified as Komarraju Sushmitha, a native of Somaram village in Nereducherla mandal: Reports
Somavaram Highway Crash Kills Three After Tyre Burst
The MLA Jyothula Venkata Appa Rao (Nehru) expressed deep grief over the tragic incident
Possibility of 3rd World War no longer remote: Ex-NSA
BENGALURU: The possibility of a Third World War is no longer remote but increasingly plausible, said former national security adviser M K Narayanan at a round table discussion during the release of its Global Futures 2035 report by the Bengaluru-based Synergia Foundation on Friday. Narayanan attributed this to a combination of factstechnological militarisation, cyber warfare and the erosion of restraint among major powers. While reflecting on the turbulence of the global order, Narayanan advocated the revival of non-alignment as a credible framework in a fractured world order. He had earlier said that India missed a chance to split western Pakistan after the 1965 and 1971 wars, and it could be difficult to deal with terrorism without dealing with Pakistan. The round table brought together senior diplomats, policy makers, senior Indian army officers, strategic experts, industry leaders, startups and academia to deliberate on the emerging architecture of global power, economics and technology, as well as environmental and societal issues. The discussions explored the convergence of geopolitical shifts, technological disruption, and the pursuit of strategic autonomy in an increasingly uncertain world. Speaking on the faultlines of power (geopolitics), former foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal argued that the essence of diplomacy has always involved negotiation and compromise, yet the current model has stripped diplomacy of moral and ethical considerations. Drawing on a civilisational perspective, former foreign secretary Nirupama Rao explored how India must navigate an international system that is simultaneously fragmented, networked, and interdependent. India has emerged as a trusted anchor economy because of its governance stability, digital infrastructure, and scale, she added. Atomic Energy Commission former chairman Dr Anil Kakodkar reflected on the moral and structural paradoxes of todays world order. Indias strength, he said, lies in its people rather than resources. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) former chairman S Somanath underscored the importance of synergy between academia and industry and said that the governments contribution and support in R&D needs to be scaled up for a healthy tech ecosystem in the country. Combination of factors Narayanan attributed this to a combination of factstechnological militarisation, cyber warfare and the erosion of restraint among major powers. While reflecting on the turbulence of the global order, Narayanan advocated the revival of non-alignment as a credible framework in a fractured world order. The round table brought together senior diplomats, policy makers, senior Indian army officers, strategic experts, industry leaders and startups, etc
MoS (Railway) Somanna to accompany President Murmu to African countries
This will be the first ever State visit by an Indian Head of State to Angola and Botswana, according to press statement from the ministry of external affairs (MEA).
Pirates Board Ship from India in Somalia
The British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre issued an alert over the attack, warning ships in the area.
Attackers board ship off the coast of Somalia after firing rocket-propelled grenades at it
Attackers armed with machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades boarded a Malta-flagged tanker off the coast of Somalia on Thursday. British officials and private security firms issued alerts, with Ambrey reporting the incident appeared to be an assault by Somali pirates operating in the region.
Patient groups urge PM Modi to enforce Delhi HC order to establish National Fund for Rare Diseases
NEW DELHI: A leading patient group and families of children with ultra-rare diseases across India have appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to direct the Union Health Ministry to urgently implement the Delhi High Court order, which recommended establishing a National Fund for Rare Diseases (NFRD) so that dozens of children and young adults, who are on the brink of losing their lives, are not denied treatment. The cry for justice appeal, which was also addressed to Chief Justice of India, BR Gavai, urged him to list and expeditiously hear the pending Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the Supreme Court and to restore the October 4, 2024, order of the Delhi High Court in full. In a landmark decision, the Delhi High Court directed the centre to establish the NFRD with an allocation of Rs 974 crore and to ensure uninterrupted therapy for patients with rare diseases. However, the Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry filed an SLP before the Supreme Court, which is still pending. According to Manjit Singh, National President, Lysosomal Storage Disorders Support Society (LSDSS), who wrote the appeal to the prime minister and the CJI, on behalf of patient groups and families of children with ultra-rare diseases across India, the SLP is pending before the SC, thus halting relief for patients. The matter has remained pending for nearly a year while lives continue to be lost. Each week of delay is another irreversible loss. We are not asking for sympathy - we are asking for the implementation of the High Courts order that upholds our childrens right to live with dignity, he added. The case is listed in the apex court for November 7. The lack of timely central funding has forced the treatment discontinuation for over 55 patients located in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Delhi, and Karnataka. This crisis is worsening, with a growing number of patients expected to lose access to care as the delay continues, said the national patient groups. In the past two years alone, nearly 60 patients have died after exhausting the Rs. 50 lakh funding cap, said Singh. He added that over 55 patients also remain untreated for months despite being registered at Centres of Excellence (CoEs) and eligible for approved life-saving therapies. Without urgent intervention, this number will exceed 100 by year-end, he added. Urging for urgent financial assistance for patients who are at high risk of losing their lives due to a delay in decision-making, he said that this will ensure all patients whose funding is exhausted are put back on the life-saving Emergency Response Team (ERT). He also urged the immediate restoration of treatment for those who have exhausted their one-time support. They also advocated for a structural change in the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD), 2021, and to establish a permanent and sustainable funding mechanism for chronic diseases such as Group 3 (a) diseases, moving beyond the inadequate one-time cap. Under the policy, the centre provides financial and technical support for the treatment of 63 identified rare diseases in India. The key features include financial assistance of up to Rs 50 lakhs per patient for treatment at the 12 designated Centres of Excellence (CoEs), including AIIMS, Delhi. The appeal said: We, the undersigned representatives of national patient groups for Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs) and other ultra-rare diseases, write with deep anguish - and with faith in your compassion and leadership - on behalf of dozens of children and young adults who are on the brink of losing their lives. These are not children without cures; they are being denied treatment due to administrative delays and the restrictive one-time funding limit under the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD) 2021. Highlighting the anguish of the parents, whose children are suffering from rare diseases, he said, parents across India are watching their children fade after years of stability on treatment. According to Raja Murugappan, Rare Diseases Support Society, Tamil Nadu, The Rs. The 50 lakh limit was never meant to be a death sentence. We appeal to the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister to uphold the hope these families still hold. Jayanta Mudi, father of six-year-old Gaucher patient Adrija from Kolkata, said, My daughters health had improved remarkably when she was on therapy. Since treatment stopped, she has been deteriorating each day. Our children deserve a chance to live. Abul Kalam, father of 10-year-old Abdul Rehman from Delhi, added, My sons therapy stopped in September 2024. His condition is worsening, and we are helpless as the proceedings drag on. We only seek a chance for our children to live. The appeal added that the right to health and life under Article 21 is not an abstraction - it is the only hope for these children. Justice delayed in this matter will mean justice denied, irreversibly. The 63 rare diseases grouped into three categories include a range of genetic and metabolic disorders, including Phenylketonuria, Cystic Fibrosis, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Prader-Willi Syndrome, and various Lysosomal Storage Disorders, a rare genetic metabolic disease.
Hyderabad Book Fair 2025 to be held from December 19 to 29
Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Book Fair Committee has announced that the 38th edition of the Hyderabad Book Fair will be held from December 19 to 29 at NTR Stadium near Indira Park. The event poster was unveiled at a meeting held at Somajiguda Press Club on Monday, November 3, by Book Fair Advisors Prof. Kodandaram and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Visakhapatnam: Flower Prices Surge Ahead of Karthika Somavaram
Middlemen, citing quality concerns, are buying flowers at throwaway prices but selling them high in city markets, exploiting the festive rush.
Where Would America Be Without Us? Refugee Community Stunned by White House Limits
Minnesotas large Somali community was among the immigrant groups that helped revitalize the Lake Street corridor, which has long called out to newcomers to America.
Jubilee Hills bypoll: BRS-BJP hold Fevicol like bond, says Revanth
Hyderabad: Telangana chief minister A Revanth Reddy has alleged a strong understanding between the BRS and BJP, specifically in the context of the Jubilee Hills bypoll,, comparing it to a Fevicol-like bond, and accused K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), KT Rama Rao (KTR), and Kishan Reddy of obstructing Telanganas progress. Roadshow in Vengal Rao Nagar, Somajigua Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Govt. gives Group-II post to son of slain former MLA
Maoists killed former MLA Siveri Soma and then sitting legislator Kidari Sarveswara Rao at Araku Valley in 2018
Somasila Reservoir Nears Full Level; Minister Narayana Puts Officials on High Alert
Heavy inflows force water release into Penna River; low areas face flooding
Health Biotech Strengthens Global Footprint at CPHI Frankfurt 2025
Health Biotech Limited (Health Biotech), a research and development-driven pharmaceutical company from India, successfully concluded its participation at CPHI Frankfurt 2025. Considered one of the most respected global gatherings for the pharmaceutical industry, the three-day international event, themed Shaping Pharmas Future , was held from October 28 to 30 in Frankfurt, Germany, and brought together experts and innovators from across continents. Mr. Parmjit Arora with clients at CPHI Frankfurt 2025 At the event, Health Biotech received a warm response from a steady flow of visitors, including international business delegates, among others. The company's product line and manufacturing capability showcased at the expo attracted significant attention from overseas customers, also enhancing Health Biotech's image as a quality-oriented pharmaceutical manufacturer. Health Biotech representative and clients at CPHI Frankfurt 2025 Speaking about the companys participation, Mr. Parmjit Arora, Managing Director, Health Biotech Limited said, Events like CPHI Frankfurt open meaningful dialogues with global partners who share our belief in quality and innovation. Our participation this year reflects the steady progress weve made in research-led manufacturing. From oncology injectables to advanced drug delivery systems, every collaboration strengthens our commitment to making reliable and affordable medicines accessible worldwide, built on a foundation of scientific integrity . Mr. Amrit Arora, Director, Health Biotech Limited was also present at the venue. Health Biotech is renowned for formulating and manufacturing cost-effective, high-quality generic and innovative drugs. Its core business is injectables, including lyophilized, dry, and liquid forms, as well as liposomal injectables, pre-filled syringes, liquid ampoules and vials. The portfolio also includes eye, ear, and nasal drops, sterile, non-sterile ointments, and liquid as well as dry syrups, making it one of the few Indian firms with such a wide sterile range. Health Biotech's manufacturing facility, located in the foothills of the Himalayas in the Baddi industrial belt, is WHO-GMP and ISO 9001:2008 certified and complies with MHRA norms. The facility is equipped with advanced executory features like auto-tunnel sterilization, lyophilization capacity and form-fill-seal process for sterile injectables and prefilled syringes. The company began commercial operations in 2005 and was amongst one of the earliest manufacturers to set up a plant in the excise-free zone. Over time, it evolved into a dependable contract manufacturer for some of Indias biggest pharmaceutical companies such as Cipla, Cadila, Piramal, Vetoquinol, and Lupin. Its steady growth has resulted in creating over 100,000 square feet of manufacturing space, accommodating an innovative and fast-expanding range of products. In 2009, Health Biotech entered its own marketing journey across India and global markets. Alongside this, it established a Government of Indiaapproved R&D Centre, working on areas such as nano-particle and liposomal drug delivery, plant-based research, and bio-waste utilization. Some of its major projects include the purification of heparin from bio-waste and the development of recombinant DARBEPOETIN ALFA. Health Biotech produces close to 1,000 pharmaceuticals across major therapeutic categories - oncology, hormones, critical care, and higher antibiotics. Its products range from injectables, syrups, prefilled syringes to creams, ointments, drops, and more. Health Biotech's leadership position in oncology, injectables, hormonal products, and cardiovascular pharmaceuticals is a testament to its manufacturing capability and flexibility. Health Biotech's participation in CPHI Frankfurt 2025 was a reflection of its compliance with global standards, as much as, a reflection of its mission to build long-term global relations. The overwhelming response at the show spoke volumes about the confidence the company has earned with its consistent quality, niche innovation, and scientific excellence. About Health Biotech Limited Founded in 2005, Health Biotech Limited is an India-based pharmaceutical organization with a research-driven approach. The company specializes in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, affordable formulations in the areas of oncology, hormones, critical care, and antibiotics.Health Biotech with its WHO-GMP certified production unit in Baddi, Himachal Pradesh has expanded its presence in both Indian and global markets by its expansive offerings across a broad spectrum of injectables, syrups, ointments and latest drug delivery systems. healthbiotech.in
In a move to bridge critical gaps in Indias construction supply chain, Tattva, the Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) arm of Somany Impresa Group (home to Hindware), today announced a strategic investment of INR 6 crore in Mad Over Buildings (MOB), a fintech-enabled B2B e-commerce platform specializing in building materials. (L-R): Vivek Kumar, Founder Mad Over Building and Shashvat Somany, Founder, Tattva and Group Strategy Head, Somany Impresa Group This partnership gives MOB access to Hindwares extensive distribution network, accelerating market penetration and expanding its footprint across Indias fast-growing construction ecosystem. MOBs tech-enabled Line of Credit for secondary and tertiary sales and escrow-backed marketplace addresses financing challenges for smaller distributors and retailers, enhancing liquidity and enabling seamless transactions. The platform is focused on emerging architects, contractors, and builders, providing an untapped market opportunity. Hindware, through this partnership will leverage MOBs vast and expansive e-commerce prowess to drive stronger sales momentum across categories. Our investment in MOB reflects Tattvas strategic vision to not only participate in, but actively shape the future of Indias building materials ecosystem , said Mr. Shashvat Somany, Founder, Tattva and Group Strategy Head, Somany Impresa Group . MOBs approach to digitizing the supply chain, coupled with its innovative financing solutions, perfectly aligns with our objective of fostering technology advancements that drive efficiency and unlock new growth avenues across Hindware Limited. This investment underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of market innovation and supporting solutions that empower our vast network and the industry at large. Mr. Sriharsha Bandaluppi, Head of Tattva said, MOBs strong connect to mid and low-segment architects, contractors, and builders, a segment often overlooked by larger players, is exciting. Their 'Industry 1st tech-enabled Line of Credit' for secondary and tertiary sales is a game-changer. It directly empowers Hindwares distributors and dealers by improving access to financing and driving faster transaction cycles, while simultaneously accelerating MOBs market reach and growth. The investment in MOB is strategically timed to leverage the rapid evolution of Indias construction technology and materials procurement landscape. The building materials sector represents a high-growth industry with a clear pathway to profitability, yet its digital adoption remains at just 2%, highlighting immense untapped potential for platforms like MOB to drive digital transformation and gain market share. Mr. Vivek Kumar, Founder Mad Over Building said, With Hindwares INR 6 crore investment through Tattva, we are doubling down on our vision to digitize Indias US$200 billion construction and interiors industry. MOB is creating the countrys first curated Line-of-Credit and escrow-backed marketplace, unifying every category from civil materials to sustainable and interior solutions under one transparent ecosystem. Having built MOB from the ground up, I believe this marks Indias inflection point in Construction Tech, where capital, technology, and trust converge to create exponential value over the next decade. About Tattva SIG Tattva, the corporate venture capital arm of Somany Impresa Group, empowers visionary founders and transformative startups. Inspired by the Sanskrit word Tattva meaning essence, principle, or fundamental truth the platform reflects a commitment to truth, excellence, and progress. Focusing on early-stage ventures in deep-tech manufacturing, enterprise SaaS, clean technologies, next-generation e-commerce, and disruptive product innovations, SIG Tattva goes beyond capital to provide strategic guidance, industry access, and operational expertise. By bridging entrepreneurs with real-world industrial ecosystems, it aims to accelerate breakthrough ideas and strengthen Indias deep-tech innovation landscape. About MOB Mad Over Buildings (MOB), founded by visionary entrepreneur Kumar Vivek, is scaling Indias first curated Line-of-Credit, escrow-backed payment system, and full-stack material catalogue, including sustainable construction and interior materials. MOB is transforming how architects, contractors, and developers transact digitally, transparently, and at scale. The platform is rapidly emerging as a leading Construction-Tech venture in India.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man Who United India
By Ravi Rohmetra Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born into a Gujarati family belonging to the Leva Patel community. He hailed from Karamsad, a village in the erstwhile Bombay Presidency, where his father, Jhaverbhai Patel, owned a homestead. Patel had three elder brothersSomabhai, Narsibhai, and Vithalbhai (who would later become a prominent political leader)and two [] The post Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: The Iron Man Who United India appeared first on Northlines .
Survey identifies 128 level crossings to be removed within 100 km of Bengaluru
This follows a directive issued in July by Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna, who instructed officials to eliminate all level crossings within this zone to enhance both rail and road safety
Fake Birth Certificate Scam: BJPs Kirit Somaiya Flags 511 Illegal Rohingyas In Amravati
Somaiya said Amravati Municipal Corporation had illegally issued a total of 1,709 birth certificates, many of which were later found to be fraudulent.
Cyclone Montha: incessant rain wreaks havoc in Nellore, Prakasam districts
People from both the districts, particularly the daily wage labourers, face severe problems; continuous rains in the catchment areas and steady inflows from upstream led to rising water levels in Penna river and Somasila Reservoir in Nellore district
Somasila Reservoir Kept 10 tmc ft Below Full Level To Avoid Flood Havoc
In 2021, unprecedented inflows following breaches at the upstream Annamayya project forced Somasila engineers to release over 5.1 lakh cusecs of water downstream
